Custom Alters/Tokens

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Transform Your Decks with Legendary Artwork from an MTG Pioneer!


Welcome to My Card Alter Studio – Where Classic Cards Become Legendary Works of Art

 

What is a Card alter?

A card alter transforms standard trading cards, like Magic: The Gathering, into unique works of art by extending original designs, adding thematic elements, or creating entirely new visuals. This creative process enhances the aesthetic appeal of cards while keeping them functional for gameplay. Perfect for collectors and casual players, alters are a vibrant way to personalize and showcase your favorite cards.

Frequently asked questions

How do you do your commissions and are they tournament legal?

How I do my alters.

Every cards I do is carefully prepared beforehand and after painted I use a clear lacquer to protect the art from scratching and to ensure its permanence. I paint the art using only top quality acrylic paints. The process is time consuming, requires a lot of patience and concentration.

What paints do you use?

As of right now I use Goldens and Liquitex colors. I highly recommend Golden Open acrylics though, as they have a very extended drying time, so you can work them like oil, however they are somewhat transparent and slightly gummy to work with if your doing thin coats.

Are your cards Durable/ Will they last?

Altered Art cards have excellent durability. The acrylic is a flexible plastic polymer and after they are finished I use a clear lacquer varnish to seal the card. This protects the card and brings out the colors in the paint much like a Kamar varnish on a oil painting but keeps the cards luster.

I recommend keeping all cards in a sleeve to help protect them and store them.

Are They tournaments legal?

"Artistic modifications are acceptable in sanctioned tournaments, provided that the modifications do not make the card art unrecognizable, contain substantial strategic advice, or contain offensive images. Artistic modifications also may not obstruct or change the mana cost or name of the card." From the Stack Exchange.

Aside from this I would ask your judge.

 

What is a Custom Token?

A custom token is a personalized game piece used in collectible card games (CCGs) to represent creatures, counters, effects, or resources during gameplay. While many games provide generic tokens, custom tokens allow players to enhance their gaming experience with unique, eye-catching designs that reflect their personality, favorite themes, or artistic preferences.

 

 Frequently asked questions

 

How I Make My Tokens

All the tokens I create are custom, hand-drawn pieces of art. I begin each token by sketching and inking the design by hand. This technique gives the artwork a clean, detailed, and timeless quality. (if requested), For color tokens, I use a combination of markers and/or acrylic washes.

What games are your tokens compatible with?

Our custom tokens are designed to be compatible with a wide range of popular collectible card games (CCGs) and tabletop games,

Can I use custom tokens in official tournaments?

While custom tokens are often accepted in casual and local events, official tournament organizers may enforce stricter rules. It's always a good idea to check with the Tournament Organizer or review the specific game's Tournament Policy before using custom tokens.

Are your tokens the same size as standard game cards?

Yes, our custom tokens are designed to match the standard size of game cards used in most collectible card games

Can I provide my own artwork for a custom Alter/ Token?

Absolutely! You can provide your own artwork for your custom token, and we’ll use it to create a unique game piece just for you. Here’s how it works:

 

  • Ensure your artwork is high-resolution (300 DPI or higher) for the best printing quality.
  • Preferred file formats include PNG, JPEG, or PDF.
  • Artwork dimensions should match standard card sizes (2.5 x 3.5 inches) or the specific size you want.
  • If you’re using copyrighted artwork, you must have permission from the copyright owner to use it. We cannot print tokens with copyrighted images without proper authorization.
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     How long does it take to create a custom Alter/Token?

    The time it takes to create a custom token depends on my current schedule and backlog. Since I balance custom token requests with professional commissions and my show schedule, I don’t have fixed timelines for these projects.

    When you submit a request, I’ll review my workload and provide you with an approximate timeline specific to your order. If you have a particular deadline in mind, feel free to let me know, and I’ll do my best to accommodate it within my schedule. Thank you for your patience and understanding!

    Do you authenticate your art?

    YES I DO! If asked to do so.

    I use a foil certificate of authenticity numbered sticker that I place on the work, the twin of the certificate I put on the certificate of authenticity card I include with the alter. You will always know if i did the art.

    How do I Get one of your Alters/ Tokens?

    See the button under the picture? just click it, or...you can email me @ bhwackwitz@gmail.com or you can contact me through any of my social media accounts. If your in the EU you can contact my agent there Andre Brunet, I will add a link later.

    Do I send you the cards ?

    You can send me the cards, that is the fastest way, or I can get them. I use TCG Player to buy the cards, and If I have to provide them the cost is the art charge plus the card cost plus shipping cost. Also, I do not cover the post to ship them to you. You, my good friend, get to cover that. That will get calculated in the total, though its usually not much, usually between $5-$7.50 in the US. and $16-$30 for international shipping

    DO NOT send me your cards without first contacting me either through here, my social media or email. I have my reasons for this...so please do not 😊

     

    How long does it take?

    Due to high demand for my alters and ongoing commitments to other art commissions, conventions, and projects, I operate on a queue system. Once I receive your alter request, I'll add you to my list and provide a rough timeline for completion. This ensures each piece gets the time and care it deserves while keeping you informed about your project's progress.

    What are your prices? 

    Alter prices vary depending on several factors:

    Complexity of the Alteration:

    • Simple alters (e.g., border extensions or minor modifications) are more affordable.

    • Highly detailed or intricate artwork requires more time and effort, which increases the cost.

    Card Provision:

    • If you provide the card to be altered, the price will reflect only the artwork and labor.

    • If I provide the card, the cost will include the card's market value.

    Shipping Costs:

    • Shipping costs will vary depending on your location, the method of shipping, and whether tracking or insurance is required.

      Token prices vary depending on a few factors

      When you reach out with your request, I’ll provide a customized quote based on these factors. If you have specific ideas or a budget in mind, feel free to share them, and we’ll work together to create a piece that fits your vision!

      Here is a sample gallery of tokens and cards I've altered that will give you a sample of what was done and for how much, but on average my prices are:

      • Small image box alter: $80-$100
      • A medium alter on the card: $150-$250
      • A full alter, where I alter the entire card or pant the back of a artist proof: $350-$500
      (Prices are art only and do not include the card!)

      The price of my custom tokens varies based on a few factors, including the level of detail, color, and style requested:

      Black and White Tokens:

      • Simple Designs: $50
      • Complex Designs: Up to $75
      • These tokens are hand-drawn with pen and ink, offering a clean, timeless look.
      Color Tokens:
      • Standard Color: $100
      • Highly Detailed Color: Up to $150
      • Color tokens are created using markers and acrylic washes, bringing depth and vibrancy to the artwork.
      Painted Tokens:
      • These are treated as highly detailed, one-of-a-kind pieces and are priced similarly to my card alters. Contact me for specific pricing details.

        ( I typically provide the blank token as part of the price, ensuring a seamless process.If you prefer, you can send me your own blank token to use for the artwork. )

        I do not take payment until the Alter is finished. Once I finish them, I will contact you, show you pictures and then we can do payment. Once I receive the payment I ship out your alter/alters.

        What about Refunds?

        Sorry, No refunds, all sales are final.

         Its' an original art request and you do not pay until the art is finished. Once finished I will send you a final picture for your approval. Once approved, it is shipped.

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          Sample Custom Alter

        • Sample custom Token

        Request a Commission